I get asked all the time how I support myself and my family during cold and flu symptoms. Here are the items that I keep stocked in my cabinet throughout the season. Check back often as I will add to this list as I find new tools.
Please keep in mind: The information presented is intended for informational and educational purposes only, and hasn't been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The content is intended to be helpful and informative, but it isn't intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition or disease, nor is it medical advice. One should consult a qualified medical professional before engaging in any dietary and/or lifestyle changes.
Propolis Throat Spray – Propolis is a substance bees make by collecting plant and tree resins. It is used to line the hive walls, where it functions as the immune system of the hive by protecting everyone inside from outside germs. It contains over 300 powerful natural compounds renown for helping to support immunity and wellness. Take it daily as a preventative measure throughout the season, take throughout the day at the onset and during a cold or flu. I carry this spray in my purse and take it as needed when I am exposed to a lot of people and germs. It’s great for kids and to take when you travel!
Life Extension Zinc Lozenges – Take at the very first sign of a cold! I learned about these from Dr. Chris Masterjohn. They are the ONLY lozenges in the market that use zinc acetate — by far and away the best form based both on basic science, patient data, and clinical trials.
Elderberry Syrup – Ederberry syrup has powerful antibacterial and anti-infectious qualities and is very commonly used to ward off cold and flu. Take it daily throughout cold and flu season, double it up at the onset of sickness. Make your own to save money. The one linked is my favorite
Oregano Oil Tablets – Suck on a tablet for as long as you can handle (they can be intense!) at the onset of sickness and feel suck on them throughout. Especially good for sore throats!
Source Naturals Wellness Formula – take at the onset and throughout your sickness. You can even take this daily when you are feeling run down or are travelling for extra support.
Vitamin C – Take extra vitamin C at the onset and throughout
Umcka Cold Care – drink up to 2- 3 times per day at onset and throughout the time you have the cold
Tea – Traditional Medicinals Cold Care, Throat Coat, Elderberry and Breathe Easy are my favorites
Four Sigmatic Chaga Mushroom Elixir Chaga is rich in Beta-D Glucans which boost the immune system, helping to support your body’s ability to fight illness.
Bone Broth – Make your own or find a high quality brand at the grocery store. Bone broth has multiple nutritional benefits and has been used by many cultures around the world to treat flu, colds, coughs and sinus issues for hundreds of years. Drink a cup a day as a preventative measure, more when you are sick.
Essential Oils – Doterra Onguard, Doterra Breathe or their equivalents in other brands are my favorite for immunity and sickness. Citrus oils and conifers (like Douglas Fir or Eucalyptus) are great cleansing oils and will kill germs and help you to breathe. Diffuse in your homes or apply topically with a carrier oil. I personally don’t recommend taking essential oils internally.
Resources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3872021/
https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/chaga-mushroom-the-immune-boosting-superfood/
https://empoweredsustenance.com/ingesting-essential-oils/
https://beekeepersnaturals.com/pages/benefits